ama dates is on the san mateo county coast for us. ama? >> carolyn, 24 surfers gathered for the kickoff of the mavericks. it goes all the way through march 31st. now we just wait for those massive waves that can be anywhere from 25 to 50 feet high. sky 7hd was there for the start of the mavericks surfing contest. the 24 competetors joined hands in the water for a prayer circle. >> they say a prayer. thisy talk about what it means for them. it is very special. it is sacred. >> reporter: he is the president and the ceo of mavericks. he is confident that this year's conditions will be ideal. the last time they were able to hold the contest was in february of 2010. >> we are pulling it off this year. the meteorologists -- in fact, your meteorologists said it looks good. >> reporter: mavericks is known for monster waves. >> even the best surfer in the world could not catch waves. it is cut and dry. it separates the men from the boys. >> reporter: the waves are dangerous. the beach is only for emergency crews. >> you will view it at the hotel an